And always whirling, whirling to freedom

 Artist / programmer Jared Tarbell has created an addictive and hypnotic applet that spins virtual galaxies to life.

The Orbitals is a collection of particles operating on one simple rule: choose another particle in the system and orbit it with a fixed radius at a constant velocity. In this variation, a single root particle is instantiated in the center of the stage. All other particles introduced to the system fall into orbit at some level. Initially particles orbit at a fairly fast velocity. Over time, they slow so that their positions, orbit paths, and parent connections can be clearly rendered.

  

Don't be surprised if you get a sudden urge to break out your old Spirograph.

via